The nurse is providing interventions to a patient with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following interventions should be avoided?

Explanation

• Ambulation is not advised because it is thought that it may increase the risk of the thrombus dislodging and traveling to the lungs as a pulmonary embolism (PE) or leading to a CVA.

• Some newer research shows that ambulation does not increase the risk of developing a PE in patients with a DVT, but the current recommendation is still to rest the affected limb and avoid ambulating during recovery.

• Incorrect: Heat, pain medication, and elevation of the leg are appropriate nursing interventions when caring for a patient with a DVT.

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